AM I TOO OLD FOR ORTHODONTICS?

By Dr. Alon Grosman

For many years, braces have been as strongly associated with adolescents as acne. However, this has been changing dramatically in recent time. In 2010, the American Association of Orthodontics reported that the percentage of adults being treated with orthodontics has increased to 22 % nationally. This is a 50% increase from a similar study done in the mid 1990’s.

One factor which seems to be responsible for this upswing in adult orthodontic treatment is an increase in cosmetic options. The size of braces, even the metal braces, has decreased significantly. Tooth colored braces have been around for a long time, but have had the poor reputation of staining. With advancements in materials, this is no longer a concern. Clear aligners, used increasingly in recent years, have brought another option for adults hoping to hide their treatment.

Another factor which seems to have affected the rate of adult orthodontics is self-perception. When I turned 25 years old, I remember hearing for the first time that “30 was the new 20.” It was very inspiring to know that as I approached 30 I was actually getting younger. Ten years later, I was lucky enough to discover that “40 is the new 30.” This general optimism in aging has brought with it a new industry of “wellness.”

Magazines have been created that are dedicated to health at various stages of life. Doctors espousing the “truth” about longevity have taken over prime time television. Plastic surgeons have plastered local advertising with new technologies in turning back the effects of time. From the dental industry, we have seen whitening material become an over the counter item. In my field of orthodontics, Align Technology, the parent company of “Invisalign,” has poured millions of Wall Street dollars into marketing campaigns targeting adult patients.

Should age be a factor in the decision to start orthodontic treatment? Absolutely not. In my opinion, there are both advantages as well as challenges with treatment of every age group.

Treatment of the teen age population has the benefit of growth. We are able to accomplish some goals which would not be possible with adults without the use of jaw surgery. However, hygiene and motivation can become compromised very quickly. Adults, on the other hand, are usually very motivated as they have truly considered the sacrifice of time and finances before starting treatment. Still, treatment time for some adults tends to be longer. Reasons for an increased length of treatment time range from the need to open or close spaces for missing teeth, higher or lower density of bone, or a decreased level of bone support due to a history of gum disease.

The most important part of any treatment, regardless of age, is the proper diagnosis of all related conditions of the mouth. This may require input from the dentist, periodontist (gum specialist), or other dental specialist. Once this is accomplished, the orthodontist can create a realistic treatment plan using the orthodontic appliance, whether it be braces or clear aligners, which can accomplish these goals.

In short, I like to prescribe to my own philosophy that one is only as old as one feels. If you desire improving your smile and having teeth that fit together comfortably, then you should certainly consider orthodontic treatment.

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